How To Create Cozy Pumpkin Pillows
The leaves are turning, the air is getting crisp, and you know what that means, pumpkin spice everything!
But why stop at lattes and candles when you can bring that cozy, autumnal vibe straight to your home with some adorable DIY pumpkin pillows?
Whether you’re a beginner just dipping your toes into the wonderful world of crochet or a seasoned pro looking for a fun new project, these Cozy Pumpkin Pillows are just the thing to add a little extra warmth and charm to your space.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need
Before we get our crochet hooks moving, let’s gather all the goodies you’ll need for this project:
- Yarn: Choose a chunky yarn in pumpkin-inspired colors. Think warm oranges, rich browns, or even a soft cream for a rustic touch. I love using a soft, chunky acrylic yarn for that extra squishy feel.
- Crochet Hook: A size N/9.0mm hook works perfectly with chunky yarn, but feel free to adjust based on your yarn thickness.
- Stuffing: Polyfill is your best friend here! You’ll need enough to make your pumpkins plump and cozy.
- Tapestry Needle: For sewing your pumpkin together and weaving in ends.
- Scissors: Trusty scissors for trimming ends and tidying up.
Step 1: Create the Pumpkin Body
Start with a Magic Circle
If you’re new to magic circles, don’t worry—they’re easier than they sound! Just create a loop with your yarn, leaving a tail.
Insert your hook into the loop, yarn over, and pull through to create a slip stitch.
From here, chain 2 (this will count as your first double crochet).
Double Crochet Around
Work 12 double crochets into the center of the magic circle. Pull the tail to close the loop tightly, and join with a slip stitch to the first double crochet.
You should have a neat little circle.
Increase Rounds: To make your pumpkin body, you’ll need to work a few rounds of increases. Here’s a quick guide:
Round 2: Chain 2, 2 double crochets in each stitch around, join with a slip stitch (24 stitches).
Round 3: Chain 2, 1 double crochet in the first stitch, 2 double crochets in the next, join with a slip stitch (36 stitches).
Round 4: Chain 2, 1 double crochet in the next 2 stitches, 2 double crochets in the next, join with a slip stitch (48 stitches).
Keep increasing as needed to get the size you want for your pumpkin.
Step 2: Shape the Pumpkin
Crochet Without Increasing
Once you’ve reached the desired diameter, it’s time to work without increasing to give your pumpkin some height.
Simply double crochet in each stitch around, joining with a slip stitch at the end of each round.
Do this for about 6-8 rounds, or until your pumpkin reaches the desired height.
Decrease Rounds
To close up the top of your pumpkin, you’ll need to start decreasing:
Round 1: Chain 2, 1 double crochet in the next 2 stitches, double crochet 2 together (dc2tog) in the next, join with a slip stitch.
Round 2: Chain 2, 1 double crochet in the next stitch, dc2tog in the next, join with a slip stitch.
Close the Top
Once your opening is small enough, stuff your pumpkin with polyfill until it’s nice and plump.
Finish closing the top with a few more decreases, and then fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Ridges
Weave the Yarn
Thread your tapestry needle with the tail and insert it through the center top of the pumpkin, pulling it out through the bottom center.
Pull the yarn tight to create a dimple at the top.
Wrap and Pull
Now, wrap the yarn around the outside of the pumpkin, insert the needle back through the top center, and pull it out the bottom again.
Pull tight to create the first ridge.
Repeat this process to create several evenly spaced ridges around the pumpkin.
Secure the Tail
Once you’re happy with the ridges, weave in the tail and secure it at the bottom of the pumpkin.
Step 4: Add the Stem
Crochet a Small Stem
Use green or brown yarn to crochet a small tube for the stem.
Chain 6, join to form a ring, and single crochet in each stitch around for several rounds until it’s the length you want.
Attach the Stem
Sew the stem onto the top of your pumpkin, making sure it’s centered and secure.
Congratulations, you’ve just made a cozy pumpkin pillow! Now for the fun part, decorating.
You can add some curly tendrils with a bit of green yarn, sew on some cute buttons, or even embroider a little face if you’re feeling extra festive.
Thoughts
This Cozy Pumpkin Pillow is the perfect fall project, easy enough for beginners but with enough detail to keep seasoned crocheters entertained.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add some handmade charm to your home decor.
So grab your yarn, put on some cozy tunes, and get ready to create something beautiful this autumn.
Be sure to share your beautiful work on crochet patternz community. I’d love to see how you personalize your project!
Happy crocheting!
